While you're waiting for Julia Roberts' latest corn-a-thon or Armageddon 2, try this one. Ian McKellen gives what may be one of the finest performances of the decade in a great role as James Whale, film director of the 1930s. This movie is also worth seeing because you get to see something you may never see again: Brendan Fraser acting, and doing a damn good job!
It's a personally reassuring feeling when you choose and enjoy a movie like this. It's like telling yourself "See? You're smart. You don't like JUST Bruce Willis and Police Academy! You can enjoy slow-moving personal dramas just like the professional movie watchers." Try it and see.
Anyway, former movie director James Whale (Frankenstein, Showboat) is spending his final years nostalgic and sickly. He is alone, save for a loyal maid (played wonderfully by Lynn Redgrave) and a former lover who stops by for a token appearance. Mr. Whale is also outwardly and unashamedly gay. He treats this as a simple fact of life and not something to hide or be ashamed of.
Unfortunately for him, he is now old and lonely. He shamelessly leers and propositions a young interviewer who comes to visit in an early scene. He tries to begin a friendship with his gardener, Clay. This relationship is doomed from the beginning, as we know the depth of Whale's sadness and longing.
The three principles here are really strong. Ian McKellen adds another powerhouse performance to his recent string of work. (Apt Pupil, Rasputin, Richard III) He so convincingly brings James Whale to life he hypnotizes you. Even through the few slow spots, it's just a joy to watch him working. Brendan Fraser proves a lot of people wrong in this movie, myself included. His portrayal of Clay is humane, somewhat fearful, confused and sweet. He gets a chance to play a real human here (as opposed to a caveman or a jungle man) and he hits it perfectly.
Lynn Redgrave also stands out as the maid, Hanna. Her reasons for loyalty to Whale are unclear, but it's obvious she's a religious and noble woman. She also cracks wise a few times, which helps the proceedings considerably. Lolita Davidovich also shows up for a few scenes as Clay's ex-girlfriend, but you'll miss her if you blink.
On the surface, it's a simple movie about nostalgia, loneliness and regret. Underneath, it's a celebration of individuality and being true to one's self. It may not be all for all tastes, but if you check it out, you'll probably enjoy it.
Overall, an arthouse movie you needn't fear. It's a brave movie, as James Whale was a brave man. If you're wondering why you should rent a movie about a gay old man and a gardener, well so was I.
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